Oman hosts international conference on regional maritime cooperation

By Ahmed Asmar

ANKARA (AA) – Oman is hosting an international conference to discuss ways to enhance maritime regional cooperation in the Indian Ocean.

Co-organized by the Omani Foreign Ministry and India Foundation, an independent research center, the two-day event, which opened on Sunday, is attended by dozens of ministers, officials, experts, and specialists in maritime, economic, and diplomatic affairs from around the world.

Themed “A Journey Towards New Horizons of Maritime Partnership,” the conference aims to discuss opportunities and challenges facing Indian Ocean countries and enhance regional cooperation in maritime, economic, and security affairs, the Omani Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

Addressing the opening session, Omani Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr Albusaidi highlighted the importance of the event in strengthening maritime partnerships among countries of the region and fostering dialogue on shared concerns.

"This conference is an opportunity to consolidate our efforts and embrace our diversity as we sail together towards new horizons of partnership and a brighter future," he added.

The conference was first held in 2016 by India Foundation in Singapore with participation from 30 countries. It has since become a key platform for dialogue on regional cooperation, maritime security, and economic integration among countries bordering the Indian Ocean.